In a time when people are opting for smaller backyards, and extensive shared neighborhood spaces, heading to a local park for a barbecue is the new tradition. Whether you’re planning on cooking hot dogs over an open fire or enjoying a picnic lunch, you’ll need to have a place to sit. That’s where picnic tables come in!
So, what are the different types of picnic tables? There are all sorts of varying picnic tables available on the market, from traditional wooden designs to modern aluminum options. The most common options include plastic picnic tables, concrete picnic tables, aluminum picnic tables, round picnic tables, foldable picnic tables, and picnic tables with attached benches. Others include portable picnic tables, wooden picnic tables, perforated picnic tables, and thermoplastic picnic tables.
In this article, we will take a look at some of the different types of picnic tables that you might encounter.
1. Wooden Picnic Tables
One of the most classic choices for a picnic table is a wooden design. Wooden picnic tables are typically made out of pressure-treated lumber, which gives them excellent resistance to rot and insect damage.
One of the main benefits of a wooden picnic table is that they are relatively inexpensive. You can find a decent-sized wooden picnic table for around $100.
However, keep in mind that wooden picnic tables require more maintenance than other types of tables. You will need to regularly sand and stain/paint the table to protect it from harsh weather elements.
2. Perforated Picnic Tables
At first glance, you may not even realize what a perforated picnic table is. In this case, the word “perforated” means that there are tiny holes in the picnic table. Some people refer to the holes as “mesh,” and they are intended to allow liquid spills to go through the table and not pool on top.
Perforated picnic tables are easy to clean. If you have kids, you know how quickly a picnic table can get dirty. With a perforated picnic table, all you need to do is hose it down, and the dirt and grime will go right through the holes.
Another benefit of perforated picnic tables is that they are typically lightweight. This makes them easy to move around, which can be a big plus if you like to change up your outdoor furniture regularly.
3. Portable Picnic Tables
If you like to camp, hike, or otherwise spend time outdoors, a portable picnic table would be a great choice. Portable picnic tables are usually made of aluminum or plastic and can be easily carried with you on your adventures.
Some portable picnic tables even come with their own carrying case, making them easier to transport. Just be sure to check the weight limit before you buy since some of these tables can be pretty heavy.
4. Aluminum Picnic Tables
If you’re looking for a picnic table that requires little to no maintenance, then an aluminum table might be good. Aluminum picnic tables are usually made out of powder-coated aluminum, which gives them excellent resistance to rust and corrosion.
Aluminum picnic tables are also relatively lightweight, making them easy to move around. However, they are also typically more expensive than wooden picnic tables, with a decent-sized table costing about $300.
5. Round Picnic Tables
Round picnic tables are really common and can be found almost anywhere. They are a great choice if you have a small yard or patio since they take up less space than a rectangular table.
Round picnic tables can seat anywhere from four to eight people, depending on the size of the table. They typically have benches that go around the outside of the table, but some designs feature chairs.
6. Plastic Picnic Tables
If you’re looking for an inexpensive picnic table that is easy to maintain, then a plastic picnic table might be a good option. Plastic picnic tables are made of recycled HDPE plastic, which is extremely durable and resistant to rot and insect damage.
One of the main benefits of a plastic picnic table is that they require virtually no maintenance. You can simply hose them down with a garden hose to clean them.
They are also usually less expensive than wooden or aluminum picnic tables, with a decent-sized table costing around $150.
7. Thermoplastic-Coated Picnic Tables
Plastic picnic tables are generally common because they are highly affordable than the other options. But many people tend to associate plastic with low quality and lacking in durability. This isn’t the case with thermoplastic-coated picnic tables.
Thermoplastic is a type of plastic that is heated and then cooled to form a hard, protective coating. This coating is then applied to metal surfaces, such as the frames of picnic tables.
The result is a picnic table that has the durability of metal with the low maintenance of plastic. Thermoplastic-coated picnic tables are relatively more expensive than other types of picnic tables, with a decent-sized table costing around $250.
But if you’re looking for a durable and low-maintenance picnic table, then a thermoplastic-coated table might be the right choice.
These tables can also withstand harsh weather conditions and are easy to clean. You shouldn’t be worried about leaving the table outside during winter since the thermoplastic coating will protect it.
8. Recycled Plastic Picnic Tables
Being environmental-friendly is critical in the modern era. With global warming and climate change being major concerns, it’s more important than ever to try to use products that are made from recycled materials.
If you’re looking for a picnic table that is eco-friendly and easy to maintain, then a recycled plastic picnic table might be the right choice.
Recycled plastic picnic tables are usually made of HDPE plastic, which is extremely durable and resistant to rot and insect damage.
Plus, since the material is recycled, you can feel good about using a picnic table that is good for the environment.
Some recycled picnic tables are coated with zinc to prevent rusting, while others are powder-coated to resist corrosion.
Zinc-coated tables are typically more expensive than powder-coated tables, with a decent-sized table costing around $275.
Powder-coated tables are less expensive, with a decent-sized table costing around $200.
9. Concrete Picnic Tables
Concrete picnic tables are extremely durable and weather-resistant. These tables are usually made out of precast concrete, which is extremely strong and long-lasting.
One of the main benefits of a concrete picnic table is that they are virtually indestructible. However, keep in mind that they are also cumbersome, making them difficult to move around.
Additionally, concrete picnic tables are usually more expensive than other types of tables, with a decent-sized table costing around $700.
10. Folding Picnic Tables
If you have a small yard or patio, you may not have enough space to keep a picnic table out all the time.
In that case, a folding picnic table would be a great solution. Folding picnic tables can be easily stored away when not in use and then pulled out when you’re ready to entertain.
Most folding picnic tables are made out of wood or aluminum. They typically have benches that fold down along with the table, making them easy to set up and takedown.
11. Attached Benches
Some picnic tables are designed with benches attached to the picnic table itself. This used to be rare a few years ago, but now it is becoming more popular because it offers some distinct advantages.
One of the main benefits of an attached bench is that you don’t have to worry about losing individual pieces. With detached benches, it’s easy to misplace one of the benches or have it stolen.
Another advantage of attached benches is that they provide a seamless look and feel. Detached benches can often look clunky and out of place, whereas attached benches integrate seamlessly with the rest of the table.
One downside of attached benches is that they can’t be rearranged like detached benches. So if you want the option to rearrange the benches, you might want to stick with a traditional picnic table with detached benches.
And finally, attached benches are typically more expensive than detached benches. So if you’re on a budget, you might want to go with a traditional picnic table.
12. Detached Benches
As mentioned above, detached benches offer some advantages over attached benches. One of the main advantages is that they can be rearranged to suit your needs.
So, if you want to move the benches around, you can easily do so. Additionally, detached benches are typically less expensive than attached benches.
However, one of the biggest disadvantages of detached benches is that they can be stolen more easily than attached benches. Furthermore, they don’t always provide the same seamless look and feel as attached benches.
Summary
Picnic tables are a great addition to any backyard, park, or picnic area. They provide a place for people to sit and enjoy the outdoors.
There are a variety of different types of picnic tables available on the market, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. In this article, we have outlined some of the most popular types of picnic tables.
When choosing a picnic table, it is essential to consider your budget, the amount of maintenance you are willing to do, and the style you prefer. With so many different options available, there will always be a picnic table that is perfect for you!
